S ectarian graffiti painted on an Orange Hall and nearby bus shelter is not representative of the people in the area, a local councillor said this week.
Sinn Féin councillor and Belfast deputy mayor Tierna Cunningham was speaking after the Orange Hall on the Whitewell Road was painted with sectarian slogans early on Tuesday morning. A nearby bus shelter was also daubed with the graffiti.
Councillor Cunningham said sectarian vandalism of any kind is unwelcome in the area.
“Sectarianism is wrong and this act of vandalism is not representative of the nationalist people of the area. All this does is raise tensions,” she said.
“Sectarianism is anti-republican and as Gerry Adams recently said ‘sectarianism demeans us all. It cannot be tolerated and must be eradicated.’ Local residents don’t want this.
“Young people have recently been involved in successful clean ups of the area which has been a source of pride for those involved and residents.
“Sectarian vandalism like this will not stop this community going forward.”
A PSNI spokesman appealed for information on the incident. He said it was reported that two youths were seen in the area with a tin of paint and headed off towards the Shore Road at approximately 4.15am.
“Anyone with any information is asked to contact York Road Police Station on 0845 600 8000,” he added.
“Or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
